Sightings – Plants

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/17/10

Observation Time: 9:10 a.m.

Observation Location: near Gavins Pond

Common Name: Common Greenshield Lichen

Scientific Name: Flavoparmelia caperata

More Information: Wikipedia

Common Greenshield Lichen

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/12/20

Observation Time: 7:10 p.m.

Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Common Mugwort

Scientific Name: Artemesia vulgaris

Comments: Common mugwort is used as a culinary herb and medicinally throughout the world.

More Information: Botanical.com and Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 4/16/19

Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Common Mullein

Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus

Comments: Verbascum thapsus has a wide native range including Europe, northern Africa and Asia, from the Azores and Canary Islands east to western China, north to the British Isles, Scandinavia and Siberia, and south to the Himalayas. In the United States it was imported very early in the 18th century and cultivated for its medicinal and piscicide properties. By 1818, it had begun spreading so much that Amos Eaton thought it was a native plant. In 1839 it was already reported in Michigan and in 1876, in California. It is now found commonly in all the states.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/13/20

Observation Time: 5:15 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Common Mullein

Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus

Comments: Verbascum thapsus has a wide native range including Europe, northern Africa and Asia, from the Azores and Canary Islands east to western China, north to the British Isles, Scandinavia and Siberia, and south to the Himalayas. In the United States it was imported very early in the 18th century and cultivated for its medicinal and piscicide (fish poisoning) properties. By 1818, it had begun spreading so much that Amos Eaton thought it was a native plant. In 1839 it was already reported in Michigan and in 1876, in California. It is now found commonly in all the states.

The leaves are kind of fuzzy. A tall stalk of yellow flowers will shoot up soon from the main plant.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/11/10

Observation Time: 9:45 a.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Common Mullein

Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus

Comments: Mullein is widely used for herbal remedies, with well-established emollient and astringent properties. Mullein remedies are especially recommended for coughs and related problems, but also used in topical applications against a variety of skin problems. The plant has also been used to make dyes and torches.

More Information: Wikipedia

Common Mullein

 

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/2/11

Observation Time: 4:45 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond

Common Name: Crab Apple

Scientific Name: Pyrus baccata

Comments: Red-tinged hairless leaves indicate this is may be a Siberian crab apple.

More Information: Wikipedia

Crab Apple

 

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/3/20

Observation Time: 9:30 a.m.

Observation Location: near Gavins Pond

Common Name: Crabapple tree

Scientific Name: Malus spp.

Comments: Crabapple trees have lovely pink and white blossoms in spring. The apples they produce are tiny.

More Information: Crabapple tree indentification

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/21/19

Observation Time: 7:00 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Creeping Myrtle

Scientific Name: Vinca minor

Comments: Also known as dwarf periwinkle, this non-native plant comes from Europe. It makes a good groundcover, and it produces lovely purple blossoms in spring and into summer, but once established it spreads and is hard to eradicate.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Hana Jenner

Observation Date: 6/9/19

Observation Time: 2:20 p.m.

Observation Location: on a log beside a trail near Brook Road

Common Name: Crown-tipped Coral Fungus

Scientific Name: Artomyces pyxidatus

Comments: This is one of the few coral fungi found on decaying wood. The crown-like tips of the branches are unlike those of any of the other coral fungi, thus making this species relatively easy to identify.

More Information: University of Arkansas mushroom species list

Observer: Gaurav Shah

Observation Date: 7/1/23

Observation Time: 4:00 p.m.

Observation Location: trail off Billings St.

Common Name: Crown-tipped Coral Fungus

Scientific Name: Artomyces pyxidatus

Comments: This is one of the few coral fungi found on decaying wood. The crown-like tips of the branches are unlike those of any of the other coral fungi. Seek (the free cell phone app) readily identified it.

More Information: University of Arkansas mushroom species list

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/12/15

Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.

Observation Location: conservation land at Lakeview & Morse Streets

Common Name: Cypress Spurge

Scientific Name: Euphorbia cyparissias

Comments: Cypress spurge is an invasive perennial plant from Eurasia. Its extensive underground root system spreads by means of lateral root buds.  It proliferates into large clonal colonies.

Baltimore checkerspot butterflies feed on cypress spurge flowers.

More Information: Vermont Invasives

Cypress spurge with Baltimore checkerspot butterfly chrysalis:

Cypress spurge with Baltimore checkerspot butterfly:

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/28/10

Observation Time: 1:55 p.m.

Observation Location: 147 Wolomolopoag St., Sharon

Common Name: Daisy Fleabane

Scientific Name: Erigeron annuus

Comments: Fleabanes get their common name from an old belief that they repelled fleas and other pestiferous insects. Early European settlers in North America stuffed mattresses with fleabane and hung clusters of plants in their cabins to drive out fleas. The custom persisted for generations, even though Daisy Fleabane appears to have no insect-repelling ability whatsoever. In fact, the plant ATTRACTS insects—not only pollinators but also tiny herbivores that nibble away the ray flowers and leave only the central disk.

More Information: Hilton Pond Center

Daisy Fleabane

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/23/09

Observation Time: 9:45 a.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Daisy Fleabane

Scientific Name: Erigeron annuus

Comments: Fleabanes get their common name from an old belief that they repelled fleas and other pestiferous insects. Early European settlers in North America stuffed mattresses with fleabane and hung clusters of plants in their cabins to drive out fleas. The custom persisted for generations, even though Daisy Fleabane appears to have no insect-repelling ability whatsoever. In fact, the plant ATTRACTS insects—not only pollinators but also tiny herbivores that nibble away the ray flowers and leave only the central disk.

Daisy Fleabane

 

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/4/20

Observation Time: 11:15 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Dame’s Rocket

Scientific Name: Hesperis matronalis

Comments: Dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) is a tall, short-lived perennial, which produces white, pink or purple flowers in the spring. Known for its colorful and fragrant blooms, the plant has been a traditional garden favorite. However, in recent years, Dame’s rocket has gone rogue, moving from yards and garden plantings into the adjoining landscapes. These flowers were growing rampantly in the Billings Loop meadow.

More Information: Applied Ecological Services

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/23/18

Observation Time: 9:30 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Dandelion

Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale

Comments:  Native to Europe, it has spread nearly worldwide. The young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. The taproot can be boiled and eaten or dried and ground as a base for a hot drink.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/2/19

Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.

Observation Location: Along the dirt road under the power lines on the other side of South Main Street from Ward’s Berry Farm

Common Name: Deer-tongue Grass

Scientific Name: Dichanthelium clandestinum

Comments: Deer-tongue grass is a perennial cool-season grass native to eastern North America. It grows to 2′ to 4′ tall. It is tolerant of low pH soils, high concentrations of aluminum, drought conditions, and infertile soils. For these reasons, it is used in revegetating acid mine sites. Deer-tongue grass prefers moist to wet sites and does best in full sun. This grass produces two seed crops; a spring crop in an open panicle and a fall crop that remains mostly enclosed in the leaf sheath. Birds eat the seed and the plant lodges during the winter forming a dense cover for wildlife.

More Information: Roundstone Native Seed

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/12/20

Observation Time: 6:40 p.m.

Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Deer-tongue Grass

Scientific Name: Dichanthelium clandestinum

Comments: Deer-tongue grass is a perennial cool-season grass native to eastern North America. It can grow up to 4′ tall. It is tolerant of low pH soils, high concentrations of aluminum, drought conditions, and infertile soils. For these reasons, it is used in revegetating acid mine sites. Deer-tongue grass prefers moist to wet sites and does best in full sun. This grass produces two seed crops; a spring crop in an open panicle and a fall crop that remains mostly enclosed in the leaf sheath. Birds eat the seed and the plant lodges during the winter forming a dense cover for wildlife.

More Information: Roundstone Native Seed and Illinoiswildflowers.info

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/27/15

Observation Time: 3:30 p.m.

Observation Location: my back yard (Gavins Pond Road)

Common Name: Deptford Pink

Scientific Name: Dianthus armeria

Comments: Deptford Pink is an introduced species from Europe.

More Information: Maryland Biodiversity Project

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/6/14

Observation Time: 12:45 p.m.

Observation Location: near Gavins Pond

Common Name: Deptford Pink

Scientific Name: Dianthus armeria

Comments:The Deptford pink is a European species, introduced and widespread in North America. Its name refers to the English town near London in which this species was formerly common.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 8/13/20

Observation Time: 3:30 p.m.

Observation Location: Mountain St.

Common Name: Devil’s Beggarticks

Scientific Name: Bidens Frondosa

Comments: A summer annual that may reach as much as 3 1/2 feet in height.  Devils beggarticks has prickly fruit that facilitate seed dispersal by sticking to the fur and clothing of any animal or human that brushes by this weed when mature.  Devils beggarticks is primarily a weed of pastures, hay fields, roadsides, landscapes, and nurseries.  It is found throughout the United States.

More information: University of Missouri

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/26/10

Observation Time: 5:25 p.m.

Observation Location: edge of woods by Gavins Pond near soccer fields

Common Name: Dewberry

Scientific Name: Rubus flagellaris

Comments: Dewberries are found in the eastern half of North America. Indians prepared a tea using northern dewberry roots to calm stomach irritation. The fruits are large and tasty. They can be eaten raw or used in jams, jellies, and sauces.

Dewberries start out green, then turn to orange, then red, and finally black when fully ripe.

More Information: Wikipedia

Dewberry blossom photographed on 5/26/10:

Northern Dewberry

Unripe dewberries photographed on 6/27/10:

Northern Dewberry

Ripening dewberries photographed on 6/28/10 at 147 Wolomolopoag St.

Northern Dewberry

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/28/10

Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.

Observation Location: 154 Wolomolopoag St.

Common Name: Dewberry

Scientific Name: Rubrus species

Comments: Not sure if this is Rubrus flagellaris, the northern dewberry, or some other Rubrus species such as Rubrus hispidus, the swamp dewberry.

More Information: Dewberries and Brambles: University of Massachusetts

Observer: Rita Corey

Observation Date: 8/13/20

Observation Time: 1:40 p.m.

Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill

Common Name: Downy Rattlesnake Plantain Orchid

Scientific Name: Goodyera pubescens

Comments: Please don’t dig up wildflowers.

More Information: Virginia Native Plant Society

Observer: Rita Corey

Observation Date: 6/23/19

Observation Time: 2:15 p.m.

Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill

Common Name: Downy Rattlesnake Plantain Orchid

Scientific Name: Goodyera pubescens

Comments: Please don’t dig up wildflowers.

More Information: USDA Plant Fact Sheet

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/14/11

Observation Time: 2:10 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Dwarf ginseng

Scientific Name: Panax trifolius

Comments: This diminutive variety of ginseng has no “medicinal” properties.
It blooms in spring and dies back in summer.

More Information: US Forest Service

Dwarf Ginseng

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/9/20

Observation Time: 5:00 p.m.

Observation Location: conservation land across the street from the Gavins Pond soccer fields

Common Name: Eastern Redcedar Tree

Scientific Name: Juniperus virginiana

Comments: Birds love its berries.

More Information: Arbor Day Foundation

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/23/19

Observation Time: noon

Observation Location: Billings Loop Botanical Trail

Common Name: Enchanter’s Nightshade

Scientific Name: Circaea quadrisulcata

Comments: Enchanter’s nightshade is a member of the primrose family.

More Information: UMass Amherst Weed Herbarium

Observer: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program employees

Observation Date: 9/4/20

Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.

Observation Location: undisclosed location in Sharon

Common Name: False Hop Sedge

Scientific Name: Carex lupuliformis

Comments: False Hop Sedge is an endangered species in Massachusetts. The NHESP observers said they saw only a few plants.

As of 9/4/20, this species does not appear on the list of rare species that have been documented in Sharon.

Please do not dig up or disturb plants you may encounter in the wild.

More information: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/2/20

Observation Time: 10:55 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)

Common Name: False Solomon’s Seal

Scientific Name: Maianthemum racemosum

Comments: This herbaceous perennial plant is unbranched and grows to about knee-high. The central stem is somewhat erect and ascending. Flowers (then berries) occur at the end of the plant. Flowers occur in a plume-like cluster of minute florets and transform into a “bunch” of ruby red berries (although they do not all ripen at the same time).

The berries are edible and somewhat bittersweet (caution: large quantities can have a laxative effect). In traditional medicine the dried rhizomes can be used to brew a tea to treat coughs and constipation.

More Information: Edible Wild Food

Note the flower at the tip end of the plant. This distinguishes it from true Solomon’s Seal, which has flowers hanging in a row along the underside of the stem.

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/4/20

Observation Time: 11:20 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Field Horsetail

Scientific Name: Equisetum arvense

Comments: Field horsetail, a perennial plant of genus Equisetum, is the only living representative of the very ancient and primitive class Sphenopsida, tree-sized members of which were prominent in the land vegetation of the Carboniferous era (353-300 million years ago).

More Information: Minnesota Seasons

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/30/10

Observation Time: 6:10 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Fly Agaric mushroom

Scientific Name: Amanita muscaria

Comments: Mushrooms of the genus Amanita account for most mushroom-related deaths. See: http://www.a1b2c3.com/drugs/var012.htm

Fly Agaric Mushroom

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/28/23

Observation Time: 11:45 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (under high tension wires)

Common Name: Golden Ragwort

Scientific Name: Senecio aureus (also known as Packera aurea)

Comments: Golden Ragwort is a biannual plant with yellow-orange flowers. It grows to a height of 2 feet and belongs to Asteraceae family (i.e. asters).

More Information: Grow Native

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/30/20

Observation Time: 3:50 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm

Common Name: Golden Ragwort

Scientific Name: Senecio aureus (also known as Packera aurea)

Comments: Golden Ragwort is a biannual plant with yellow-orange flowers. It grows to a height of 2 feet and belongs to Asteraceae family (i.e. asters).

More Information: New Moon Nursery

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/4/11

Observation Time: 2:20 p.m.

Observation Location: conservation land near Billings Street

Common Name: Golden Ragwort

Scientific Name: Senecio aureus

Comments: Golden Ragwort is a biannual plant with a yellow flower that grows upto a height of 2 feet and belongs to Asteraceae family (i.e. asters).

More Information: HealthBenefitsTimes.com or Illinois Wildflowers

Golden Ragwort

Golden Ragwort

Golden Ragwort

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/12/09

Observation Time: 11:25 a.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond

Common Name: Goldenrod

Scientific Name: Solidago sp.

Comments: Goldenrod gets a bad rap as a cause of autumn allergies. The real culprit is ragweed. In fact, goldenrod has medicinal properties.

More Information: Great Plains Nature Center

Goldenrod

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/9/20

Observation Time: 2:40 p.m.

Observation Location: meadow near Gavins Pond dam

Common Name: Gray Birch Tree

Scientific Name: Betula populifolia

Comments: Gray Birch is a small tree reaching a height of 20 to 30 feet. Bark is grayish white with little exfoliation compared to River Birch. Leaves are triangular with a narrow point, doubly serrated and fall color is light yellow. Branches become reddish brown with in a year and a dark V-shape patch appears just below. Gray Birch will grow in the poorest soils. Its wood is used for spools, barrel hoops and fuel. Several species of birds feed on the seeds and buds.

More Information: Native Trees of Indiana

Observer: Susan Drisko

Observation Date: 4/27/2022

Observation Time: 3:35 p.m.

 Observation Location: Town-owned conservation land near Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Green False Hellebore

Scientific Name: Veratrum viride

Comments: Green false hellebore, or giant false-helleborine, is native to eastern and western (but not central) North America. It is extremely toxic, and is considered a pest plant by farmers with livestock. The species has acquired a large number of other common names within its native range, including American false hellebore, American white hellebore, bear corn, big hellebore, corn lily, devil’s bite, duck retten, itchweed, poor Annie, blue hellebore and tickleweed.

PLEASE DO NOT DIG UP WILD PLANTS.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/15/20

Observation Time: 9:40 a.m.

Observation Location: near Pond Street rotary by Lake Massapoag

Common Name: Ground Ivy (a.k.a. “Gill-over-the-ground”)

Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea

Comments: Commonly known as ground-ivy, gill-over-the-ground, creeping charlie, alehoof, tunhoof, catsfoot, field balm, and run-away-robin, it has numerous medicinal uses, and is used as a salad green in many countries. European settlers carried it around the world, and it has become a well-established introduced and naturalized plant in a wide variety of localities.

More Information: Go Botany and Wikipedia and Wildflowers of the United States

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/23/18

Observation Time: 8:40 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)

Common Name: Ground Ivy (a.k.a. “Gill-over-the-ground”)

Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea

Comments: Commonly known as ground-ivy, gill-over-the-ground, creeping charlie, alehoof, tunhoof, catsfoot, field balm, and run-away-robin, it has numerous medicinal uses, and is used as a salad green in many countries. European settlers carried it around the world, and it has become a well-established introduced and naturalized plant in a wide variety of localities.

More Information: Go Botany and Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/26/19

Observation Time: 8:40 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)

Common Name: Ground Ivy (a.k.a. “Gill-over-the-ground”)

Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea

Comments: Commonly known as ground-ivy, gill-over-the-ground, creeping charlie, alehoof, tunhoof, catsfoot, field balm, and run-away-robin, it has numerous medicinal uses, and is used as a salad green in many countries. European settlers carried it around the world, and it has become a well-established introduced and naturalized plant in a wide variety of localities.

More Information: Go Botany and Wikipedia and Wildflowers of the United States

Observer: Kathy Farrell

Observation Date: 1/5/17

Observation Time: N/A

Observation Location: Path off Mountain Street, Sharon

Common Name: Ground Pine Club Moss (a.k.a. Princess Pine)

Scientific Name: Lycopodium obscurum

Comment: Also known as a “princess pine.” It looks like a baby pine tree, and stays green even in the winter.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Rita Corey

Observation Date: 8/13/20

Observation Time: 1:50 p.m.

Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill

Common Name: Halberd-leaved Tearthumb

Scientific Name: Persicaria arifolia

Comments: Halberd-leaved tearthumb has distinctly arrow-shaped leaves with outward-pointing projections at the base. The stem is covered with small downward-curving barbs that gives this small annual wetland vine its common name. A halberd is a medieval battleaxe.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/12/11

Observation Time: 6:55 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Hay-scented Fern

Scientific Name: Dennstaedtia punctilobula

Comments: Hay-scented fern is very common in Sharon. It is often found growing in large colonies, forming a green carpet on the forest floor. It can be identified by its lacy, light-green fronds. It can be confused with New York fern, but hay-scented fern has triangular fronds, whereas New York fern fronds taper to tiny leaflets at the bottom.

More Information: Connecticut Botanical Society

Hay-Scented Fern

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/23/18

Observation Time: 6:55 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (Billings loop)

Common Name: Hay-scented Fern

Scientific Name: Dennstaedtia punctilobula

Comments: Hay-scented fern is very common in Sharon. It is often found growing in large colonies, forming a green carpet on the forest floor. It can be identified by its lacy, light-green fronds. It can be confused with New York fern, but hay-scented fern has triangular fronds, whereas New York fern fronds taper to tiny leaflets at the bottom.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 8/13/20

Observation Time: 2:25 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Rd.

Common Name: Heller’s Rosette Grass

Scientific Name: Dichanthelium oligosanthes

Comments: I identified this peculiar clump of grass using a cool app called Seek. It sprang up in a cleared and mulched area where there was no competition from other grass.

More Information: Friends of the Wildflower Garden

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/30/10

Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Highbush blueberry

Scientific Name: Vaccinium corymbosum

Comments: The northern highbush blueberry, is a North American species of blueberry which has become a food crop of significant economic importance. It is native to eastern Canada and the eastern and southern United States, from Ontario east to Nova Scotia and south as far as Florida and eastern Texas.

More Information: Highbush Blueberry

Highbush Blueberry

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/26/12

Observation Time: 2:05 p.m.

Observation Location: Near the train station tennis courts by Beaver Brook

Common Name: Honey Mushroom

Scientific Name: Armillaria mellea

Comments: Honey mushrooms are a plant pathogen and cause Armillaria root rot in many plant species. They appear around the base of trees they have infected. The symptoms of infection appear in the crowns of infected trees as discolored foliage, reduced growth, dieback of the branches and death. The mushrooms are edible but some people may be intolerant to them. This species is capable of producing light via bioluminescence in its mycelium.

Armillaria mellea is widely distributed in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The fruit body or mushroom, commonly known as stump mushroom, stumpie, honey mushroom, pipinky or pinky, grows typically on hardwoods but may be found around and on other living and dead wood or in open areas.

More Information: Wikipedia

Honey Mushrooms

Honey Mushrooms

Honey Mushrooms

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/22/18

Observation Time: 10:55 a.m.

Observation Location: Town-owned conservation land near Sandy Ridge Circle

Common Name: Honeysuckle

Scientific Name: Lonicera spp.

Comments: Bush honeysuckles are invasive deciduous shrubs that grow up to 20 feet tall. There are three species of bush honeysuckle common in the region including tartarian (Lonicera tatarica), Morrow’s (Lonicera morrowii), and Amur (Lonicera maackii). All species are similar in appearance, with simple, opposite, oval-shaped leaves. Honeysuckles bloom in May and June, producing fragrant white or pink flowers. Berries are round, fleshy and red. The center of twigs on invasive bush honeysuckles are hollow, a trait that distinguishes the invasive species from their native look-alikes.

More Information: Adirondack Park Invasive Plants

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/16/23

Observation Time: 4:05 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon WIldlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Indian Cucumber Root

Scientific Name: Medeola virginiana

Comments: Indian cucumber-root is a common perennial of the forest understory in New England. As the name suggests, the edible root tastes somewhat like cucumber.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/30/20

Observation Time: 4:45 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)

Common Name: Indian Cucumber Root

Scientific Name: Medeola virginiana

Comments: Indian cucumber-root is a common perennial of the forest understory in New England. As the name suggests, the edible root tastes somewhat like cucumber.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/14/09

Observation Time: 7:30 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm, Trustees of Reservations land

Common Name: Indian Pipe

Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora

Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.

Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.

More Information: Wikipedia

Indian Pipe

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/23/19

Observation Time: 10:45 a.m.

Observation Location: Billings Loop Botanical Trail

Common Name: Indian Pipe

Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora

Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.

Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/26/10

Observation Time: 3:20 p.m.

Observation Location: headwaters of Beaver Brook

Common Name: Indian Pipe

Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora

Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.

Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.

More Information: Wikipedia

Indian Pipe

 

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/4/20

Observation Time: 1:20 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm

Common Name: Indian Pipe

Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora

Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.

Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/4/20

Observation Time: 1:25 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)

Common Name: Interrupted fern

Scientific Name: Osmunda claytonia

Comments: The species name (claytoniana) is a tribute to John Clayton, an 18th century botanist and one of the earliest collectors of plant specimens in what later became the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The common name (Interrupted Fern) is a reference to the fact that the blade of fertile fronds is interrupted by several fertile leaflets in the midsection. Early sources refer to this fern as Clayton’s Fern.

More Information: Ferns of the Adirondacks

Interrupted fern (left) and hay-scented fern (right):

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/30/10

Observation Time: 4:10 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Iris (harlequin blueflag)

Scientific Name: Iris versicolor

Comments: The species has been implicated in several poisoning cases of humans and animals who consumed the rhizomes, which have been found to contain a glycoside, iridin. The sap can cause dermatitis in susceptible individuals.

More Information: The Flower Expert

Iris (Harlequin Blueflag)

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/13/23

Observation Time: 11:20 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Jack-in-the-pulpit

Scientific Name: Arisaema triphyllum

Comments: Jack-in-the-pulpits grow in largely deciduous forests with plenty of shade. They prefer rich, moist soil and can often be found near wetlands and vernal pools.

In the late summer, after the plant’s flower has been pollinated, it produces a large clump of bright red berries. Each berry contains several seeds, which are spread by birds and other small animals after ingestion.

The plant’s leaves, berries, and corms contain calcium oxalate, which is a chemical compound that takes the form of tiny crystalline structures. Getting this on your bare skin can cause irritation, and ingesting the plant raw can be dangerous, sometimes resulting in choking or blisters. It is therefore recommended to avoid touching any part of the plant unless you’re wearing gloves and other skin protection.

Please do not dig up wildflowers. Leave them for others to enjoy.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 10/7/10

Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.

Observation Location: end of Lee Road

Common Name: Japanese Barberry

Scientific Name: Berberis thunbergii

Comments: This specimen was a few yards beyond the end of Lee Road near the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp drainage ditch. Japanese barberry is often planted for hedges, and easily spreads to natural areas, as this specimen evidently did.

“In recent years the plant has been recognized as an invasive species in parts of the eastern United States; it is avoided by deer and has been replacing native species. Further, the plant raises the pH of the soil and affects its nitrogen levels. In Canada its cultivation is prohibited as the species can act as a host for Puccinia graminis (black rust), a rust disease of wheat. Currently there are breeding and selection programs aimed at producing cultivars that are either sterile or produce relatively little seed.” Wikipedia

More Information: Wikipedia

Japanese Barberry

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/22/13

Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road near soccer fields

Common Name: Jerusalem Artichoke

Scientific Name: Helianthus tuberosus

Comments: Before the arrival of Europeans, Native Americans cultivated H. tuberosus as a food source. The tubers persist for years after being planted, so that the species expanded its range from central North America to the eastern and western regions. Early European colonists learned of this, and sent tubers back to Europe, where it became a popular crop and naturalized there. It later gradually fell into obscurity in North America, but attempts to market it commercially have been successful in the late 1900s and early 2000s.

The tuber contains about 2% protein, no oil, and little starch. It is rich in the carbohydrate inulin (8 to 13%), which is a polmer of the monosaccharide fructose. Tubers stored for any length of time convert their inulin into its component fructose. Jerusalem artichokes have an underlying sweet taste because of the fructose, which is about one and a half times as sweet as sucrose.

It has also been reported as a folk remedy for diabetes : since inulin is not assimilated in the intestine, it doesn’t cause a glycemic spike as potatoes would. Temperature variances have been shown to affect the amount of inulin the Jerusalem artichoke can produce. It makes less inulin in a colder region than when it is in a warmer region.

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/24/10

Observation Time: 7:50 a.m.

Observation Location: near Gavins Pond outflow pool

Common Name: Jewelweed

Scientific Name: Impatiens capensis

Comments: Jewelweed, which often grows in disturbed areas near poison ivy, is also an antidote for poison ivy.

More Information: Altnature.com

Jewelweed

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/13/20

Observation Time:  5:20 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Joe Pye Weed

Scientific Name: Eupatorium purpureum

Comments: Joe Pye Weed is an herbaceous, late-blooming perennial native to much of the U.S. It is a wildflower and an herb that was used as an herbal remedy to lower fevers and other maladies. The plant is named after a Native American herbalist. The lance-shaped leaves grow in whorls around the otherwise green stem which is purple where the leaves attach.

Butterflies feed on the flowers of Joe Pye weed when they bloom in late summer.

More Information: thespruce.com

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 8/15/18

Observation Time: 1:10 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Joe Pye Weed

Scientific Name: Eupatorium purpureum

Comments: Joe Pye weed is an herbaceous, late-blooming perennial native to much of the U.S. It is a wildflower and an herb that was used as an herbal remedy to lower fevers and other maladies. The plant goes by the common name Joe Pye weed, named after a Native American herbalist. The lance-shaped leaves grow in whorls around the otherwise green stem which is purple where the leaves attach.

More Information: thespruce.com

Spicebush swallowtail butterflies and monarch butterflies were feeding on Joe Pye weed blossoms that day:

Observer: Marshall Katler

Observation Date: 9/14/23

Observation Time: 8:30 a.m.

Observation Location: old field at King Phillip’s Rock area

Common Name: Ladies’ Tresses

Scientific Name: Spiranthes cernua

Comments: Typically found in fields, damp meadows, moist thickets, and grassy swamps, Ladies’ Tresses bloom in late summer and fall.

Please do not dig up wildflowers.

More Information: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/22/13

Observation Time: 2:10 p.m.

Observation Location: King Phillip’s Rock area

Common Name: Ladies’ Tresses Orchid

Scientific Name: Spiranthes cernua

Comments: These wild white orchids grow on a spiral stalk (hence the name Spiranthes).

More Information: Go Orchids or Nature Northeast

Ladies' Tresses Orchid

Ladies' Tresses Orchid

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/18/20

Observation Time: 10:50 a.m.

Observation Location: under high tension lines across the street from the Gavins Pond soccer fields

Common Name: Lance-leaved Violet

Scientific Name: Viola lanceolata

Comments: One of only a few white-flowered stemless violets, lance-leaved violet inhabits sandy or peaty shorelines and marshes as well as more disturbed sites. The narrow lance-shaped leaves are distinctive.

More Information: Go Botany

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/15/13

Observation Time: 6:20 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond area

Common Name: Lanceleaf Tickseed

Scientific Name: Coreopsis lanceolata

More Information: Go Botany

Lanceleaf Tickseed

Lanceleaf Tickseed

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/12/20

Observation Time: 6:55 p.m.

Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Lanceleaf Tickseed

Scientific Name: Coreopsis lanceolata

Comments: This native perennial wildflower thrives in poor, sandy or rocky soils with good drainage. It is tolerant of heat, humidity and drought.

Lanceleaf tickseed features solitary, yellow, daisy-like flowers (1-2″ diameter) with eight yellow rays (toothed at the tips) and flat yellow center disks. Flowers bloom atop slender, erect stems from spring to early summer. Narrow, hairy, lance-shaped leaves (2-6″ long) appear primarily near the base of the plant.

More Information: Native Florida Wildflowers and Missouri Botanical Gardens

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 9/4/20

Observation Time: 2:30 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)

Common Name: Late Purple Aster

Scientific Name: Symphyotrichum patens

Comments: Late purple aster looks similar to smooth aster — they both have purple rays and clasping leaves. Distinguish them by their stems — late purple aster has a rough, hairy stem; smooth aster has a smooth stem with a whitish coating.

More Information: Connecticut Botanical Society

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/9/23

Observation Time: 8:25 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Lily of the Valley

Scientific Name: Convallaria majalis

Comments: Lily of the Valley is highly poisonous if consumed by humans or other animals. Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!

More Information: Wikipedia

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 10/17/10

Observation Time: 10:00 a.m.

Observation Location: 4 Gavins Pond Road

Common Name: Lingzhi mushroom

Scientific Name: Ganoderma tsugae

Comments: This mushroom specimen was growing in the tamarack (larch) grove in my back yard. It is probably growing on a root, as it was growing on the ground right next to a big tamarack tree. Since tamaracks are coniferous, this specimen is presumably Ganoderma tsugae, rather than Ganoderma lucidum, which grows on deciduous trees.

Apparently, these mushrooms are valued for their medicinal properties.

More Information: Cornell Mushroom Blog

Lingzhi Mushroom

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 8/3/10

Observation Time: 9:45 a.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond

Common Name: Little Floatingheart

Scientific Name: Nymphoides cordata

Comments: The little floatinghearts are the smaller, darker, heart-shaped floating pads visible in the photo among the bigger, greener rounder water lilies. The small, five-petalled white flowers are those of little floatingheart. Water lilies have much bigger floating blossoms (see photo taken September 12, 2009).

More Information: USDA

Little Floatingheart

Observer: Constance Keegan

Observation Date: 10/1/10

Observation Time: Daytime

Observation Location: By a large oak tree in my yard on Moosehill Pkwy

Common Name: Maitake mushroom

Scientific Name: Grifola frondosa

Comments: Also called “hen of the woods,” G. frondosa should not be confused with Laetiporus sulphureus, another edible bracket fungus that is commonly called “chicken of the woods.” Like all polypores, the fungus becomes inedible when older, because it is then too tough to eat.

More Information: Wikipedia

Maitake

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/4/11

Observation Time: 3:00 p.m.

Observation Location: conservation land near Billings Street

Common Name: Maple-leaf Viburnum

Scientific Name: Viburnum acerifolium

Comments: Maple-leaf viburnum has long been cultivated for its attractive summer flowers and foliage; then the autumn leaves turn rose-purple and contrast with the mature dark fruits. The plants will thrive in moist soils and a range of light conditions but they are a good choice for dry soils in deep shade. They can be used along forest edges, streamsides, and lakeshores.

More Information: USDA Plant Guide

Maple-Leaf Viburnum

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/9/20

Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.

Observation Location: shady woods near Gavins Pond

Common Name: Maple-leaf Viburnum

Scientific Name: Viburnum acerifolium

Comments: Maple-leaf viburnum has long been cultivated for its attractive summer flowers and foliage; then the autumn leaves turn rose-purple and contrast with the mature dark fruits. The plants will thrive in moist soils and a range of light conditions but they are a good choice for dry soils in deep shade. They can be used along forest edges, streamsides, and lakeshores.

More Information: USDA Plant Guide

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/16/23

Observation Time: 3:30 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (boardwalk)

Common Name: Marsh Blue Violet

Scientific Name: Viola cucullata

Comments: The violets of North America come in two general forms, the stemmed violets and the stemless violets. Stemmed violets produce leaves and flowers on upright stems. Stemless violets produce leaves and flowers from and underground vertical or horizontal stem. Marsh blue violet is a stemless violet. It is easily differentiated from other eastern stemless blue violets by the length of its peduncle (the flower stalk). It is generally taller (up to 25 cm or 10 in) than any of the leaves on the plant. 

More Information: U.S. Forest Service